Aiyana Ishmael is a freelance culture writer and recent graduate of Florida A&M University. She also serves as the Student Representative for the Online News Association’s Board of Directors.

The 22-year-old has led many dynamic teams over the years to create award-winning content. Previously she served as the editor-in-chief of FAMU’s student magazine Journey. In addition, Ishmael has written for Teen Vogue, Essence, Poynter, Refinery29 and more. Ishmael in her spare time hosts and produces her podcast, Black Fat Fashion.

As a journalist, she wants to ignite conversations that create change through storytelling. The Miami native is a creative and dependable leader who regularly engages in community and campus service projects. Ishmael graduated college in April of 2021 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism. She is an avid reader, former athlete and recovering theatre kid.